- iron
- magnesium
- calcium
- potassium
- sodium
- zinc
- copper
- molybdenum
- nickel
- cobalt
- selenium
- other cofactors
Operational definition
Nutrient-acquisition process.
The selective uptake, transport, storage, regulation, and incorporation of essential inorganic elements other than the principal bulk elements already classified separately.
These elements may serve as:
- enzyme cofactors;
- electron-transfer centers;
- structural components;
- osmotic regulators;
- signaling ions.
Acquisition includes homeostatic control because both deficiency and excess may impair metabolism.